Experiential Group Training: An Exploration of Student Perceptions

The experiential group is a key component of many counselor education programs, with student learning outcomes related to group theory and concepts, personal and professional growth, and leadership skill development. This qualitative study utilized a phenomenological methodology to explore the perceptions of 10 master’s level counselors-in-training who participated in a group experience as a requirement of a group dynamics course. Four primary themes (with corresponding subthemes) emerged from the data including: 1) Affective Dynamics, 2) Personal Growth, 3) Relational Dynamics with Group Members, and 4) Professional Growth. Implications of this study are discussed, along with recommendations based on the findings.